🎗️Lonny's War Update- October 584, 2023 - May 12, 2025 🎗️
Edan Alexander will be first male soldier freed since October 7
When he emerges from captivity in the coming hours, Edan Alexander will become the first male hostage soldier abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023, to be returned to Israel by the terror group.
Alexander, a dual citizen who grew up in New Jersey, was serving in the IDF’s Golani Brigade at the time of his abduction. He was kidnapped from his base near the Gaza border community of Nirim, known as the White House post, during the October 7 onslaught.
On October 7, Hamas took 19 male soldiers hostage — not all of them on duty — and seven female surveillance soldiers, the latter of whom have all since been returned to Israel. Five were released in a deal with Hamas, one was rescued, and the body of one was recovered by troops.
Currently, Hamas is holding 14 male Israeli soldiers, eight of whom have been declared dead, among them the body of Lt. Hadar Goldin, who was killed in 2014.
Hostages’ relatives urge public to rally in Tel Aviv as Alexander freed
The Hostage Families Forum is asking supporters to pack Hostages Square in Tel Aviv ahead of the expected release of Edan Alexander.
“Together, we will follow all developments and call out in unity: We must not leave anyone behind! Edan’s return must be the beginning of a comprehensive agreement that brings home all the hostages,” the group says in a statement.
Though no time is yet publicly set for the release, the group asks people to show up at noon. A report in a Saudi newspaper claimed the release would take place at that time, but a source familiar with the matter tells The Times of Israel it will likely be later.
Hostage families: Alexander release puts Netanyahu’s feet to fire on freeing the rest
The Hostage Families Forum says the looming release of Israeli-American Edan Alexander from Hamas captivity, under an arrangement reached between Hamas and Washington, will test whether Israel’s leadership is similarly committed to its citizens.
“The expected release of Edan shows that a determined leader is committed to his citizens,” the forum says in a statement, without naming US President Donald Trump.
The group calls on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take advantage of the opening created by the release, which is expected to take place over the next day, to reach a breakthrough in talks for the remaining hostages.
“Prime minister, what of your commitment to the 58 remaining hostages,” the forum challenges him. “Will you choose to make history, to return all of them and allow Israeli society to recover? Or will you continue playing for time and dodging responsibility at the cost of shredding Israeli society, seriously harming the hostages and preventing the possibility of returning the remains [of those killed]?”
Hamas set to free US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander Monday in goodwill gesture to Trump
Israel wasn’t told in advance about release, which is being made unconditionally by Hamas in hope that US will coax Jerusalem to accept deal to end war in exchange for remaining hostages
Hamas was set to release American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander on Monday after over 580 days in captivity, with the Palestinian terror group agreeing to the move as a gesture of goodwill to US President Donald Trump ahead of his trip to the region, hoping that he will in turn coax Israel to sign a deal freeing the remaining hostages in exchange for an end to the war, a US official, a Palestinian official and a third source familiar with the matter told The Times of Israel on Sunday.
US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff called Alexander’s parents Yael and Adi on Sunday afternoon to inform them of the news, a US official said. The Alexanders flew to Israel with US hostage envoy Adam Boehler on Sunday night in order to arrive in time for Alexander’s release. Witkoff was slated to fly to Israel separately from Oman, where he held the fourth round of nuclear talks with Iran on Sunday.
“The entire family is now on the way to Israel,” Edan’s father, Adi, told the Ynet news site. “We were completely surprised to receive the call from Witkoff. We knew about the negotiations but not about such a dramatic development.” full article on the one hand, this is very good news. The release of any hostages is a good news. There are many issues with this release. Trump is pushing for the Americans to be released, the single living hostage, Edan Alexander and the 4 dead Israeli/American hostages. The fear is that Trump will lose interest in the rest of the hostages. The biggest problem is that we still will have most of the hostages remain in captivity without a deal in sight. With Witkoff arriving today, there is still hope that he, with the backing of Trump will force Netanyahu into a deal to release all of the hostages and end the war. Trump is losing patience with Netanyahu which will lead him to do one of two things, either to drop the issue or to force Netanyahu to end it.
Hamas announced: Idan Alexander will be released today, in Israel preparations are being made for his transfer to Israeli territory
Hamas is expected to release the kidnapped Israeli-American soldier – for the first time as part of direct negotiation with the United States • Senior Israeli source to News 12: “We hope nothing will go wrong along the way” • Trump will deliver a statement to the media at 16:30 • In Israel they continue to place the condition for Hamas: “If there will not be willingness to release additional hostages in the coming days, we will launch the wide operation” • Continuous updatesThe military wing of Hamas announced this morning (Monday) officially that the kidnapped soldier Idan Alexander will be released today, but an exact hour has not yet been specified. Simultaneously, in Israel preparations have begun toward the release. A senior Israeli source who spoke with News 12: “We are prepared to receive an Israeli soldier and we hope nothing will go wrong along the way.” The source clarified that yesterday in Israel discussions were held with the American envoy Steve Witkoff, who updated on the contacts that matured. Witkoff is expected to land in the country around the hour 14:00.
The release of Idan Alexander – N12 coverage
Israel estimates: this is ignition of negotiations that may lead to the Witkoff outline and is preparing for it. That same senior source adds to News 12: “Hamas put on the table its only card in order to try and stop Gideon Chariots – Idan Alexander, and it is doing it under the pretext of Trump’s visit. Israel’s plans do not change: if there will not be willingness to release additional hostages in the coming days, we will go to Gideon Chariots.”Latest updates
Idan Alexander is expected to arrive at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv after his release.
Senior Israeli source to News 12: “The exit window of Idan from the Strip: until 20:00 in the evening. We estimate it will be earlier and will be adjusted to Witkoff’s schedule. Israel is in contact with the Red Cross and with the mediators and is prepared to produce a safe corridor to extract Idan from the inferno safely. All preparations were performed and completed from the fence inward into Israeli territory: namely reception in Re’im, bringing the family, flying to the hospital. Awaiting the final and specific coordination that has not yet occurred.In Israel they do not recognize that Idan is expected to fly to Qatar: “Idan is an Israeli soldier. We have procedures of how to receive a hostage, these procedures will happen certainly after nearly 600 days in captivity, he will be treated according to the best experience we have accumulated.”
Senior Hamas official abroad Mahmoud Mardawi said last night in an interview to the Qatari Al-Arabi channel: “The negotiation with the U.S. was direct, and it is not the first in recent times. Several rounds of negotiations were held with American elements. Later, Netanyahu’s government revealed the existence of this channel, which caused a short delay, but afterwards the negotiation resumed.”
Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump (Photo: reuters)
President Trump and Steve Witkoff | Photo: reutersEven before the actual release: Israel will stop its flights above the skies of Gaza for intelligence gathering or any other operational need and will allow “safe passage.” In the IDF and in hospitals they are preparing for a process similar to what occurred in previous releases.
Before this decision, Hamas sources told the Saudi Al-Sharq channel: “We demanded to stop all military actions in Gaza during the release of Idan Alexander. We will hand him to the Red Cross, but the move will not be carried out without a safe corridor that Israel will commit to. The release will be carried out without popular or military ceremonies.”Last night, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the planned release of the kidnapped soldier Idan Alexander. “Idan is coming home to his family,” he wrote. “Hopefully this is the first step among the necessary final steps to end this brutal conflict.”
The envoy of the President of the United States Donald Trump, Steve Witkoff, confirmed yesterday (Sunday) that Hamas agreed to release the last remaining living American hostage in the Gaza Strip, Idan Alexander. According to Witkoff, this is a gesture of goodwill toward Trump in order to renew the talks on ceasefire, release of additional hostages, and broad humanitarian aid to Gaza – before Israel fulfills its threat to carry out full takeover of the Strip.
Witkoff is expected to arrive in Israel today, ahead of the expected release of Alexander that is expected to be carried out for the first time as a result of direct negotiation between Hamas and the United States, without Israeli involvement. According to two senior Hamas officials who spoke with the AP news agency, the release is expected to occur at 12:00 noon.
Idan Alexander (Photo: Headquarters of the Hostages’ Families)
Idan Alexander | Photo: Headquarters of the Hostages’ FamiliesAlexander, Israeli-American soldier who grew up in New Jersey, was kidnapped from his base during the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023. This is the first time that a hostage is expected to be released since Israel renewed the fighting in March, after the collapse of the previous ceasefire agreement.
Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff (Photo: Mark Schiefelbein, AP)
Witkoff arrives today in Israel, ahead of the expected release of Idan. Archive | Photo: Mark Schiefelbein, APPrime Minister’s Office: the release – without return
The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that the United States updated Israel on Hamas’s intention to release Alexander “without return and without conditions,” and expressed hope that the move will pave the way for renewal of contacts for a ceasefire. In Jerusalem, they were previously furious about direct contacts between the U.S. and Hamas – that led to a proposal to release Alexander and four bodies of additional hostages – in exchange for an Israeli commitment to a ceasefire agreement. Shortly afterward, Israel renewed the fighting.Khalil al-Hayya, senior Hamas official in Gaza, confirmed that the organization is in contact with the American administration in recent days, and clarified that Hamas is ready to immediately begin intensive negotiations on a long-term agreement – that will include complete end of fighting, prisoner swaps, and transferring control in the Strip to an independent body.
Ceremony of transfer of the hostages in Rafah
Hamas claims: Idan Alexander will be released without “ceremony”
Sources in Egypt and Hamas confirmed to the news agency that the talks between Hamas and the United States have been conducted indirectly for five days, and that the release of Alexander is perceived as “a gift to President Trump – in the hope that he will return a bigger gift.”Simultaneously, an Egyptian source involved in the talks, also anonymous, said that Hamas received assurances from the American administration – mediated by Egypt and Qatar – that the release of Alexander “will open all the cards on the negotiation table,” including possible agreements for ending the fighting.
Hamas in direct talks with US on Gaza ceasefire
Earlier this month, it was also reported that Trump officials held secret talks with the terror group over the possibility of releasing American-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander
Hamas is in direct talks with the U.S. administration regarding a ceasefire to the fighting in Gaza and the entry of aid into the enclave, a senior Palestinian official familiar with the talks told Reuters on Sunday.The report follows a similar one earlier this month, when AXIOS reported that the Trump administration was holding secret talks with the terror group over the possibility of releasing Edan Alexander, a 20-year-old American-Israeli soldier held captive in Gaza.Hamas has held direct talks with U.S. officials in the past few months, most notably with Trump's special envoy for hostage affairs Adam Boehler. LinkNegotiations Between Hamas and the United States, Netanyahu: "Critical Days, Edan Alexander May Be Released"
Senior Palestinian officials stated that the terrorist organization is once again conducting negotiations with the Trump administration; the White House did not deny this in response to ynet. Netanyahu mentioned the soldier who holds American citizenship and added: "There may be Part A of the Witkoff outline." The sharp criticism from the American envoy: "We want the hostages, Israel is prolonging the war."
Amid reports of a crisis in the relationship between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump, and the latter's decision to "skip" Israel during his visit to the Middle East, a senior Palestinian official said today (Sunday) to the Reuters news agency that Hamas is conducting talks with the Trump administration about a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the introduction of humanitarian aid into it. A senior Hamas official later told the "Al Jazeera" network that the negotiations with the U.S. have been ongoing for several days.
In Israel, for now, they say they have no confirmation that the U.S. is speaking directly with Hamas—but they do not rule it out either. Earlier, Netanyahu said in a confidential discussion in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that there is a possibility that Hamas will release in the coming days the soldier who holds American citizenship, Edan Alexander, as a gesture to Trump.
Vered, grandmother of Edan Alexander, with his photos (Photo: Lihi Gordon)According to some participants in the discussion, Netanyahu said that "there may be a gesture" from Hamas towards Trump. He added: "We are in critical days, I cannot elaborate on everything. There may be Part A of the Witkoff outline." The participants also said that the Prime Minister spoke about this "in a messy and incoherent manner," and it was not possible to understand whether he meant the release of 11 living hostages as part of the outline—or only the release of some of them.
In response to ynet's inquiry, the White House did not deny the reports that negotiations are taking place with Hamas. A State Department official said: "We cannot comment on negotiations that are still ongoing, but we note the recent statements from Qatar and Egypt that they continue to work towards an agreement. Witkoff and his team also continue to take part in the efforts."
"Hamas bears sole responsibility for the war and the renewal of the fighting," it was stated. "We desire peace and the immediate release of the hostages. The pillars of our approach remain steadfast: to stand by Israel and to work for peace. President Trump has made clear the prices Hamas will pay if it continues to hold hostages—including the American Edan Alexander and the bodies of four other Americans."
It should be noted that this is not the first time the U.S. has allegedly conducted negotiations with Hamas. In the past, Israel was furious about secret negotiations conducted by Trump's envoy Adam Boehler for the release of hostages and a ceasefire, which ultimately did not succeed.
Crisis Between Trump and Netanyahu
Earlier today, NBC reported that Trump was frustrated by Netanyahu's decision to start a new military offensive in Gaza, called "Operation Gideon's Chariots"—which the president sees as contradicting his plan to rehabilitate the Strip. According to sources familiar with the details, in private conversations, Trump said that the new Israeli offensive in Gaza is a "wasted effort," as it will complicate the rehabilitation.
In this context, Keshet News reported this evening that Trump's envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, told hostage families he spoke with recently: "We want to bring back the hostages, but Israel is not willing to end the war. Israel is prolonging it even though we do not see where else it can progress, and we need to reach an agreement." According to him, "There is currently a window of opportunity that we hope Israel and all the mediators will take advantage of. We are putting pressure on all the mediators and doing everything to bring back the hostages."
According to the NBC report, citing sources in the U.S. and the Middle East, the tension between Netanyahu and Trump also intensified around the nuclear negotiations with Iran, when during his visit to the White House, Netanyahu hoped that Trump would promise American air support for a possible Israeli operation in Iran—and was stunned when he announced instead that he would agree to direct talks. Another layer to the crisis in relations, it was reported, is Trump's declaration to stop the operation in Yemen—which left the Prime Minister surprised and angry.
Netanyahu, for his part, said today in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that there are no disagreements with Trump and that they hold regular conversations. According to him, "They have their interests, but we are working in cooperation."
Meanwhile, sources told the Saudi "Al-Sharq" channel today that "the U.S. proposed to Hamas a plan that would begin with the release of 10 hostages in exchange for a period of ceasefire." According to the report, "The U.S. included in the proposal an agreement to Hamas's participation in the new administration in Gaza." According to the sources, the American envoy Witkoff informed the mediators that Washington would accept Hamas's participation in governance after the end of the war, provided it renounces military activity.
The sources added that Witkoff proposed to the organization a plan for a partial deal that would begin with the release of 10 Israeli hostages according to previous criteria, in exchange for stopping the war for up to 70 days, during which negotiations would take place on the final deal. The sources explained that the American proposal differs from the Israeli proposal, which set a ceasefire period of 45 days.
It was also reported that several Arab countries proposed to Trump to present an initiative to end the war during his visit to the region and to impose it on the Palestinian and Israeli sides. The proposal stipulated that the American initiative would include an immediate cessation of the war, the return of all Israeli hostages at once, and subsequently an Israeli withdrawal from the entire Gaza Strip in exchange for the disarmament of Hamas, the establishment of a local administration for the Gaza Strip, and the beginning of reconstruction.
The proposal also includes taking steps to open the way for a political solution. It was written that the sources "are optimistic about the possibility that the U.S. will accept the ideas," especially in light of indications that showed the U.S. president's dissatisfaction with Netanyahu's positions. link
President's envoy Witkoff to families of the hostages: "Israel is prolonging the war even though there is no longer a way to move forward"
Exposure: In a meeting with families of the hostages and captivity survivors, the envoy of President Trump sharply criticized Israel in a manner not heard publicly until now, saying it is "prolonging the war even though there is no longer a way to move forward" • However, Witkoff also presented an optimistic message: "There is currently a window of opportunity that we hope Israel and all the mediators will take advantage of"On the eve of the planned visit of President Donald Trump to the Middle East, signs of discomfort are increasing in the American administration regarding Israel’s policy in Gaza. In a meeting held by families of hostages with the American envoy Steve Witkoff, he conveyed sharp criticism that had not been heard publicly until now regarding Israel’s conduct – as we published this evening (Sunday) for the first time in the main edition.
"We want to bring the hostages back, but Israel is not ready to end the war. Israel is prolonging it even though we do not see where else it is possible to progress and an agreement must be reached," said Witkoff to the families of the hostages and survivors of captivity, according to sources who were present at the meeting. The sharp American criticism comes at a particularly sensitive timing, as Israel is preparing to expand the fighting in the Strip, possibly even immediately after the end of President Trump’s visit to the region.
Despite the harsh criticism, Witkoff also presented a cautiously optimistic message regarding reaching a deal: "However, there is currently a window of opportunity that we hope Israel and all the mediators will take advantage of. We are applying pressure on all the mediators and doing everything to bring the hostages back." link. Witkoff knows very well who is preventing a hostage deal and who has prevented it all along: Netanyahu. He knows that without Trump pushing Netanyahu to the wall, no deal can be made to bring home the hostages and end the war. Trump was initially involved but seems to have lost interest and has many other things going on. He already made the decisions to make statements and actions without informing Netanyahu, something that was unheard of previously. He finally woke up to the fact that Netanyahu would wind him around his little finger but apparently, no more. And that's not good for us.
US deal leaves injured hostages behind in Hamas tunnels, family says
The family of hostage Alon Ohel criticizes US moves securing the planned release of Edan Alexander while leaving the rest of the hostages behind, noting that their son is continuing to suffer in captivity.
“The deal leaves Alon behind while he is injured and in pain,” the family says in a statement carried by the Ynet news site. “We are in a nightmare and frightened.”
The comments reflect a sense of unease among some hostage families that the arrangement securing Alexander’s release, which the US says is part of an effort to end the war and free all hostages, differentiates between those in Gaza based on what passports they hold. Ohel’s mother Idit has been particularly vocal against what she terms as a selektziya between hostages during previous rounds of releases.
According to the family, relying on information from freed hostages, Ohel has been kept bound in chains and received no medical attention for shrapnel in his eye and shoulder from wounds suffered on October 7, 2023.
The statement offers well-wishes to the family of Alexander on their son’s impending freedom and urges Israel’s government to reach a deal securing the release of the rest of the hostages.
“Alon and the rest of the injured hostages are being left behind in the tunnels with no medical attention or help,” the family says. “There is no date for the end of our nightmare.”
Pleading for deal, hostages’ relatives turn to Trump ahead of Israeli-American’s release
As Israel readies for the release of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander from Hamas captivity, hostages’ families publicly blast Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the crisis, urge an immediate deal to free all remaining hostages, and voice praise for former US president Donald Trump.
Speaking to the press in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, who is believed to be alive in Hamas captivity, addresses her son: “We are doing everything for your return, even though Netanyahu has abandoned you.”
Speaking to Trump in English, she adds, “All of the Israeli people are behind you. End this war. Bring them all home.”
Ayelet Samerano, mother of Jonathan Samerano, whose body was seized and taken to the Gaza Strip by an UNRWA employee after Hamas terrorists killed him on October 7, 2023, addresses decision makers: “We are the picture of all Israeli citizens. The overwhelming majority wants the hostages home.”
Ayelet Samerano speaks in Hostages Square, Tel Aviv, May 12, 2025 (Paulina Patimer / Hostages Families Forum)Dani Miran, father of Omri Miran, emphasizes the importance of compromise in reaching a hostage deal: “In 16 days, we will mark 600 days that our loved ones have been in Hamas captivity. I’m happy about Edan Alexander’s release, but I ask — what about our passport? What about our citizenship in this country? Doesn’t the government know how to protect its citizens? There are no deals without compromises. Hamas has already made the first compromise — make your compromises and reach a deal.”
Other family members express frustration that foreign governments seem to be doing more to free the hostages than Israel itself. Michael Illouz, whose son Guy was killed in Hamas captivity, remarks bitterly, “I regret not having a foreign passport.”
Hostage's father breaks down after new Hamas video: ‘Even the strongest would break by now’
Harrowing Hamas-released video of hostages Yosef-Chaim Ohana and Elkana Bohbot sparks outrage as families accuse the Netanyahu government of deprioritizing their rescue
Some 583 days after October 7, the families of hostages Yosef-Chaim Ohana and Elkana Bohbot received a new video showing the two which was released by Hamas on Saturday. In a Sunday interview with Ynet, Ohana’s father, Avi, said the footage has left him deeply shaken, pointing to the visible deterioration in his son’s physical and emotional state.“This is the second video we’ve received in a month and a half,” Avi Ohana said. “It’s very hard to watch. The suffering they’re going through is obvious. I’m deeply worried about my son. He’s someone who always cared for others — it's why he was kidnapped in the first place.Elkana Bohbot and Yosef-Chaim Ohana in latest Hamas video“All his friends had evacuated but he said, ‘I won’t leave the wounded behind,’ and stayed to help them on October 7. That’s when the terrorists captured him. You can see the same in this video — he’s helping Elkana.” In the latest footage, Yosef Chaim announces he’s beginning a hunger strike. “If he said it, he’ll do it,” Avi said. “That’s my son. He said he’ll stop eating to shake the country awake. The previous video, also showing both men, surfaced about a month after the hostage deal concluded and just days after the IDF resumed fighting in Gaza. Avi recalled that moment: “It came out right after Ohad Ben Ami was released — he was with them in captivity. They had hope. They thought the releases were based on age: first people in their 50s, then 30s, then 20s. That’s what they believed in the tunnel.” Comparing the two videos, Avi said his son now appears in far worse condition. “I know my son — he’s not someone who breaks easily. But he’s breaking now. If he’s struggling like this, they all must be. It’s been 583 days. Even the strongest person would break by now.” When asked whether he could see the difference from the previous video, Avi responded bluntly: “Yes. We’re very disappointed in the decision-makers. We were told different things along the way. “I won’t name names but the hostages’ families are deeply disappointed. Even if the government is doing something — it’s not enough. Don’t tell us you’re doing ‘everything.’ This is the worst failure in the country’s history. They don’t deserve to be there another 583 days.” He also criticized the renewed fighting in Gaza: “Another war? God forbid more people die. Starting over—again—with no end in sight. We feel completely helpless.” Avi said prayer is keeping him going. “We pray every day. You can’t eat or drink knowing your son is in this state. It’s unbearable suffering — and it has to stop. The country doesn’t want another war. How much more can we fight? What haven’t we tried already?” When asked if he believes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is doing all he can, Avi said: “I won’t say he’s doing nothing — that would be foolish. I’m sure he’s trying as prime minister. But I also believe he’s under a lot of pressure from others in government — people I won’t name — who have him by the throat. “It’s clear now the top priority is to destroy Hamas and only after that they’ll 'see how to free the hostages.’ So freeing them has become secondary. If destroying Hamas was really the priority, they had 20 years to do it,” he said.“The most important thing right now is to bring them home. Because even if you destroy Hamas but don’t bring back the hostages — we lost this war. Even if one is left behind, we lost.” Ohad Ben Ami, the former hostage who was held alongside Yosef Chaim and Elkana, made a direct appeal Saturday to both Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump to stop the war and secure the hostages’ release. “This is another devastating video,” Ben Ami wrote on Facebook. “Elkana appears to be on an IV drip after trying to harm himself in despair. He’s silent. Yosef announces they are starting a hunger strike.” Avi said he visited Ben Ami about two months ago. “He told me everything. He was with my son in a tunnel for around seven months. My son was originally held in an apartment. Ohad said he grew very attached to him — he felt like he was his own son.” He also recounted what Ohad told him about captivity: “They were tied by their legs, hands and blindfolded. They were starved, beaten and threatened. Ohad said surviving every day in there was a miracle.”behind,’ and stayed to help them on October 7. That’s when the terrorists captured him. You can see the same in this video — he’s helping Elkana.”Yosef-Chaim Ohana in previous clip released by Hamas (Photo: via Whatsapp)
Home: Omer Shem Tov speaks | Special project of "Uvda"
A young man was kidnapped from the party wearing a Ronaldo shirt and returned two and a half months ago, after 505 days in captivity. Now Omer Shem Tov finally speaks: about what he saw in the Hamas tunnels, about the moment when he planned to escape, and about what helped him survive there, in the unimaginable moments underground.
505 days Omer Shem Tov was in captivity. Most of them – only with his captors. Underground. And he saw very much: the millions that pass in cash. The booby traps that were prepared for IDF soldiers. The small cells in which hostages are housed. He was in one like that for about 50 days. Almost without light, almost without food, and with salty drinking water. Now he sits and tells everything. Also about the loneliness, about the worry for the fearful parents in Israel, about the moments in which he thought he was going crazy – and about his light – that did not go out.
In the beginning it was two pitas a day. Over time the amount decreased
(Photo: Uvda)“There was a good party and then suddenly the music stopped. You start to hear gunfire and also see people falling on the floor,” says Omer about those moments at the Nova festival where he was spending time with his friends, among them the siblings Maya and Itay Regev. “And then Uri Danino calls me, he supposedly managed to escape, and he returned in order to save us.”
Uri, he remembers, “kept saying to us: ‘Put your head down, put your head down,’ Uri really really cared about us.” Later, Omer says, they open fire on the vehicle. One of the terrorists grabs him, throws him on the ground and ties his hands. “He gets on top of me, steps on me, beats me,” he remembers. “He laid me down in front of the tire of the pickup truck, and I, the only thing going through my head now is that he is going to crush me.” Maya and Itay were shot in their legs, and they are kidnapped, together with Omer, to Gaza. “The first thing that comes to mind is Gilad Shalit, you think about five years.”
First hug: The meeting of Omer Shem Tov and the siblings Maya and Itay Regev | Photo: UvdaAccording to him, already from the very first moments, when in front of him is a terrorist with a Kalashnikov, his survival instinct is clear to him: connection. He asks him for his name, tells him his name is Omer – then the terrorist asks him: “Do you know Eden Ben Zaken?” I tell him “Yes.” He says to me: “Sing me a song,” then I sing “Queen of the Roses.”
One biscuit per day
In the first 50 days in Hamas captivity, Omer was held with Itay Regev. They move between apartments, and around them – bombings. “Suddenly I hear a crazy explosion. The whole building just shook. I thought the building was collapsing on us.” Minutes later a terrorist will come in and tell them that ten buildings collapsed as a result of the bombing. Later, after Itay is released in the first hostage deal, Omer will remain alone. “That was one of our biggest fears,” he remembers. “Suddenly there is silence in the apartment, then the pressures started, the worries started, the feeling of loneliness. I just feel like I am going crazy.”Omer remains alone, his conditions worsen and he is taken down to the tunnels. In the next 50 days he will be held in a small and cramped tunnel, where he cannot even stand up, and during most hours of the day he is in complete darkness. The flashlight in his possession will last him, he says, for two to three hours of light only: “No shadows, nothing. Blindness.” In that period he will also eat very little. “In the beginning it was two pitas a day. Over time the amount decreased.” From two pitas at first, he finished with one biscuit per day. The water in that period, he says, was salty. “I was very skinny, very. I already saw the bones.”
Omer Shem Tov with his mother Sheli | Photo: UvdaOn one of the days he is transferred to another tunnel, much bigger. There he will spend about 400 days, until he is released home. After he eats a meaningful meal for the first time, his new captors tell him that the next day they will interrogate him about his military past. “It is scary, there is nothing to say,” he shares. “You do not want to suddenly start taking beatings.”
According to him, the IDF entering the combat zone in which he was held, occupied the captors' minds who gave up therefore on his interrogation, but also brought harsher treatment towards him, “spitting, curses.” At this stage he begins to plan in his heart an escape plan. “I said okay. The IDF is above me right now, I have an opportunity to escape. It was at night, everyone had fallen asleep,” he recalls. “I looked to the sides to see if anyone was reacting. No one reacted. I stood on my feet, the heart at two hundred beats,” he tells how he approached one of the Kalashnikovs of the captors and took it in his hands – but placed it back on the floor. “I believe it was fear. That there would be a jam.”
Garbage bags full of cash
“At some point someone arrived with a laptop and with garbage bags, and they poured them on the floor. And it is simply full of money. Piles,” he said and added that in his estimation it was about three million shekels. “One time they placed booby traps, actually in the house that was above the tunnel. Then they told me: ‘Omer, when soldiers arrive at this house, you blow it up.’ Then I told them: ‘No, not going to happen. I am not going to do it.’ They told me: ‘You will not do it, we will shoot you in the head,’ I told them: ‘Then shoot me in the head.’”About his release he learns from watching Al Jazeera, where he finds his photo among 33 hostages included in the deal. According to him, only when the ceasefire began did his captors begin to give him more food. When he comes out of the tunnel for the first time in 450 days, he finally breathes. “There was cold, clean air. Paradise.” He describes in detail the moments of happiness after the release. The meeting with an Israeli officer he can simply hug – and the meeting with the parents, who waited for him. “How much I dreamed of this,” he told them. “You have no idea.” “It was simply happiness. True happiness.”
Sheli and Malchi Shem Tov, parents of Omer | Photo: Uvda“There should not be a list – it should be everyone, and that is it”He still thinks about those who remained behind. “You say to yourself, ‘Why me yes and not them? What about them?’ I do not understand why me yes and they no. In what way am I ‘worth more’? We are the same. There should not be a list. It should be everyone and that is it.”What will you say to those who oppose the deal, to those who say: ‘Only by military force will we get the hostages out’?
“I do not believe that military force will get the hostages out.”So why are there still hostages there behind?
“I think it is a political matter.”So what now?
“Good things, only good things.” link- Israeli soccer coach calls on league to not resume next season unless all hostages return
Hapoel Jerusalem soccer coach Ziv Aryeh, after his team secured its position in the Israeli Premier League with a 4-2 win over Hapoel Hadera on Saturday, only wanted to speak about the remaining 59 hostages in a post-game interview.
“In my opinion, the league shouldn’t resume next season if the hostages haven’t returned,” says Aryeh, his eyes facing downward. “As far as I’m concerned, the country should be turned upside down until they come back. I’m not the prime minister — only the citizens can do something, because there’s no one else who will.”
Aryeh said there was no point in analyzing his team’s season.
“We dreamed of welcoming Hersh Goldberg-Polin at Teddy Stadium,” he said, referring to a Gaza hostage and avid Hapoel fan who was murdered in captivity last year.
Aryeh mentioned a game in late August 2024, when he showed his players a speech made by Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin in which they mentioned the Hapoel team.
“We decided to show it to the players, Jon spoke in Hebrew and English and Rachel in English and I wasn’t sure the foreign players would understand everything,” said Aryeh.
After they showed the speech, his assistant coach later told him about the rumors that Hersh was one of six hostages killed by their Hamas captors.
“To my sorrow, that rumor was true,” said Aryeh.
It was moments like these that have made up the team’s season, said Aryeh.
He has tried to create a normal routine, said Aryeh, but it’s an impossible task when there are hostages still in Gaza.
“The only good moments were when hostages were released,” he said.
“Everything must stop to get those people out,” he added. “This can’t go on. I strongly believe in karma. We can’t continue like this — I already said the league should have been stopped. Someone should say what needs to be done, and we’ll do it. Everything must stop to get them out; nothing else matters. Someone who makes decisions should listen — this country isn’t going anywhere until the hostages, both living and dead, are returned.” link This is a great statement and should be done across the social map to put pressure on the government to make the deal to bring all the hostages home and end this lousy war.
🎗️Day 584 that 59 of our hostages in Hamas captivity🎗️
**There is nothing more important than getting them home! NOTHING!**
“I’ve never met them,But I miss them. I’ve never met them,but I think of them every second. I’ve never met them,but they are my family. BRING THEM HOME NOW!!!”
We’re waiting for you, all of you.
A deal is the only way to bring
all the hostages home- the murdered for burial and the living for rehabilitation.
#BringThemHomeNow #TurnTheHorrorIntoHope
A deal is the only way to bring
all the hostages home- the murdered for burial and the living for rehabilitation.
#BringThemHomeNow #TurnTheHorrorIntoHope
There is no victory until all of the hostages are home!אין נצחון עד שכל החטופים בבית
Red Alerts - Missile, Rocket, Drone (UAV - unmanned aerial vehicles), and Terror Attacks and Death Announcements
*11:00AM - Houthi missile, likely aimed at Israel, falls short
A ballistic missile launched from Yemen a short while ago, apparently aimed at Israel, fell short in Saudi Arabia or off its coast, according to an Israeli defense source.
The military identified the launch, but no sirens sounded in Israel because the missile did not pose a threat.
Since March 18, when the IDF resumed its offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Houthis in Yemen have launched some 30 ballistic missiles and at least 10 drones at Israel.
What is Being Done in Gaza: Ideology in Strategic Disguise
"Gideon's Chariots" – if it will be carried out – is not an "operation" but a historic campaign that will change the lives of Israelis. The current war is not another confrontation against external enemies, but a struggle over the image, character, and future of Israel.
Minister Smotrich is the main member of the government who presents clear goals regarding Gaza, and in practice leads them, this despite his permanent status in the polls as someone who is not expected to pass the electoral threshold in elections. He serves as a "vanguard force" for assertions that the war is more important than the release of the hostages; that the conquest of territory, without withdrawing from it, is the central goal; and that the annihilation of Hamas is a realistic mission. Netanyahu and the rest of the government members later align with these assertions and give them validity, often in an ambiguous manner.
Seemingly, Smotrich represents a strategy competing with other theses, foremost among them the one that demands giving priority to a deal that would allow the release of hostages over advancing the war.
In practice, his words and actions reflect something else: a faith-based vision wrapped in the guise of strategic reasoning. The central goal for Smotrich, as embodied in the "Decision Plan" he published in 2017, is the realization of the integrity of the land, and the sanctity of the soil, which is a supreme value in his eyes. This is the main motive behind his demand for the conquest of the entire Strip, accompanied by clear statements regarding the need to impose military rule, alongside thick hints about annexation of territory and renewal of settlement in the area.
This goal is based on two strategic, ostensibly, arguments, which can be refuted: the first – "Arabs only understand when land is taken from them," and the second – "In places where settlements were established, terrorism was stopped." In addition, "facts" are presented that are intended to instill optimism and convince regarding the feasibility and desirability of conquering the Strip: that Trump’s plan to empty the area can be implemented; that local forces can be found, mainly clans, for the purpose of prolonged control in the area; and that it is possible to promote de-radicalization of the Palestinians and even erase national aspirations.
Smotrich has publicly presented his worldview many times, in a way that reflects a value gap relative to most of Israeli society, including coalition supporters: for example, the calls to "erase the village of Huwara"; the claim that Hamas is an asset and that the Palestinian Authority is an enemy that must be toppled; and that Arab citizens of Israel are in the state "for the time being." He testifies to his adherence to the doctrine of "Joshua son of Nun," meaning that foreigners must recognize Jewish control, emigrate, or fight against Israel, and in general supports the perception of "regarding the nations He shall not consider," meaning disinterest in external considerations.
Not for nothing do senior figures in his party describe the circumstances created by the war as a "time of miracle," and he himself claimed about a year ago that they should be exploited in order to "under the radar" change the DNA of Judea and Samaria, primarily through the thickening of settlement, so that even if the government falls, separation between the two peoples will not be possible, all the more so the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Netanyahu is required to provide clear answers as to whether Smotrich's positions also embody his own vision. At the beginning of the war he ruled out the possibility of renewing settlement in the Strip, but in the past year he has not commented on the issue and maintains ambiguity.
Netanyahu is required to provide clear answers as to whether Smotrich's positions also embody his own vision. At the beginning of the war he ruled out the possibility of renewing settlement in the Strip, but in the past year he has not commented on the issue and maintains ambiguity. In addition, an answer is required to the questions of how exactly hostages will be released if and when the campaign intensifies, and what the dramatic implications are of conquering the entire Strip and prolonged presence in the area—for example, the financial cost of supplying the needs of two million Palestinians filled with hostility in a completely destroyed area, security threats that will continue even at the stage of control (terror and guerrilla), and a possible undermining of Israel’s ties with the Arab world.
There are those who try to normalize the idea of conquering the Strip with the claim that this is the ethos that accompanied Zionism from its beginning. However, unlike the campaigns of 1948, 1956, 1967 or 1982 in which territories were conquered during military confrontation without an organized plan to remain in them forever, this time it is a planned move whose purpose is to fix presence, alongside "encouraging voluntary emigration" and apparently also settlement. Planting the first stake for the establishment of a Jewish settlement in Gaza could also signal the beginning of an internal argument within Israel, large parts of which—perhaps the majority—do not share Smotrich’s vision, which is gradually becoming a governmental plan, while striving to appear as a collective national goal with strategic depth.
In view of the common argument that "the war must not end with Hamas at the fences," it is necessary to ask why then does Israel allow Iran to continue its nuclear program, an existential threat several times more severe, and has not attacked it long ago or focused on eliminating that goal.
In view of the common argument that "the war must not end with Hamas at the fences," it is necessary to ask why then does Israel allow Iran to continue its nuclear program, an existential threat several times more severe, and has not attacked it long ago or focused on eliminating that goal. The answer illustrates that the deep motive in Gaza is not strategic but ideological. Hamas remaining in Gaza is not the worst nightmare. Managing a bitter war without consensus, clear goals, and public trust in leadership may be much worse and may cause an unprecedented rift in society.
"Gideon’s Chariots" – if it will be carried out – is not an "operation" but a historic campaign that will change the lives of Israelis. This illustrates that the current war is not another confrontation against external enemies, but a struggle over the image, character, and future of Israel. This insight is strongly expressed in the heated debate that erupted regarding the connection between the Haredim and the state around the IDF draft, and it is appropriate that a similar discourse develops regarding Israel’s strategic goals and its geographic identity, including an analysis of the implications of the “sliding” into a one-state reality.
Dr. Michael Milshtein is the head of the Forum for Palestinian Studies at the Dayan Center at Tel Aviv University. link
Fighting ongoing in Strip, but IDF limiting some activity for Alexander’s release — reports
A security source tells Channel 12 news that troops have not been instructed to hold their fire in the Gaza Strip, amid conflicting reports about a temporary ceasefire aimed at facilitating the release of hostage Edan Alexander.
“Adjustments have been made for the release, but the army continues with normal operations,” the source says, according to the network.
The Kan broadcaster also says that there is no ceasefire in Gaza, but military activity across the Strip is being limited to avoid harming the release process of Alexander today.
IDF troops and Gazan fighters exchanged fire in the Shejaiya neighborhood of Gaza City a short while ago, Kan notes.
Alexander release to trigger ‘immediate peace talks,’ source tells CNN
The release of Edan Alexander will immediately lead into talks for a wider arrangement aimed at ending the war in Gaza, CNN quotes a source familiar with the indirect talks between the US and Hamas saying.
“We’re going to go into immediate peace deal negotiations,” the source says.
US officials, including President Donald Trump, have portrayed the release of Alexander as a first step toward ending the war and releasing all hostages.
Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter, a former head of the Shin Bet seen as close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said earlier in the day that Israel would resist US pressure to end the war in Gaza without meeting its aims.
“We’re not the 51st star on the [US] flag,” Dichter told the Kan public broadcaster. “The war’s goals haven’t changed.” LINK This is, obviously the Americans plan and desire but it doesn't sync at all with Netanyahu's plans and desires. Netanyahu may give some lip service to Trump and say he will agree to some aspects such as to send a negotiating team but he will not agree to a ceasefire without getting some and will not agree to a 'long term ceasefire', another euphemism for ending the war, under any circumstances. The only give that Netanyahu will give is a delay in the expansion of fighting in Gaza, which he has to do anyway because he hasn't secured the necessary government vote approval for the massive call up of tens of thousands of reservist.
- Sa’ar says Israel wants ‘good relations’ with Syrian regime, in departure from previous rhetoric
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar says that Israel seeks “good relations” with the new government in Damascus, following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement today that Israeli forces had recovered the remains of Sgt. First Class Zvi Feldman, who went missing during the First Lebanon War in 1982
Asked during a Jerusalem press conference whether Israel received assistance from the Syrian government during the recovery mission, and if there is a growing alliance with Damascus following reports of indirect talks, Sa’ar says: “It seems that this question should go to the Prime Minister’s Office.”
“However, we would like to have good relations,” he continues. “We would like to have stability. We have, naturally, security concerns, and it is understood.”
He acknowledges that Israel has reason “to be skeptical with the current regime” in Syria, in particular due to “certain moves… with regard to minorities in the country” — an apparent reference to the recent violence against Syrian Druze that left dozens dead.
“But our intentions are good,” Sa’ar says. “We want it. We want security. We want stability. This is our wish.”
His comments appear to mark a shift in tone from the harsh rhetoric he has adopted to describe Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and his government.
Earlier this month, after the deadly sectarian clashes in largely Druze areas of Syria, Sa’ar urged the international community to “protect minorities in Syria, and specifically the Druze, from the regime and its terrorist gangs.”
Similarly, back in March, after reports that over a thousand civilians were massacred in the country’s Alawite heartland, Sa’ar condemned the “pure evil” of Syria’s “jihadist” leadership.
“They were jihadists and remain jihadists, even if some of their leaders have donned suits,” he said at the time.
His comments today come after Sharaa confirmed last week that his country was currently taking part in indirect talks with Israel, which reports have said are being mediated by the United Arab Emirates.
Sharaa said that the backchannel negotiations are aimed at “easing tensions and preventing the situation from spiraling out of control for all involved parties.” LINK This is the first positive and diplomatic statement about the new Syrian regime that our Foreign Minister has made and it's a long time coming. I still don't have a lot of faith in him and moves towards truly making positive moves, not just statements. Saar is not a diplomat but a petty and personally opportunistic politician. I hope I'm wrong.
Gaza and the South
IDF’s Nahal Brigade withdrawn from West Bank ahead of planned major Gaza offensive
The IDF’s Nahal Brigade has been withdrawn from the West Bank after three months of operations, ahead of an upcoming major offensive in the Gaza Strip, the military says.
“Now, the Nahal Brigade is preparing as part of the 162nd Division for additional missions in the Gaza Strip ahead of the expansion of the fighting in the Strip,” the army says.
According to Israeli officials, the planned offensive, dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots,” will see the IDF “conquering” Gaza and retaining the territory; moving the Palestinian civilian population toward the south of the Strip; attacking Hamas; and preventing the terror group from taking control of humanitarian aid supplies. link
- Palestinian sources to ToI: PA to stop paying more than 1,600 prisoners as part of prison payment reform
Two Palestinian sources familiar with issues concerning Palestinian security prisoners tell the Times of Israel that the Palestinian Authority has, as of this month, permanently stopped paying the salaries of 1,612 prisoners held in Israeli prisons.
The families of thousands of prisoners, as well as the families of terror operatives killed while carrying out attacks, will continue to receive salaries through a new system. The families receive the money, rather than the prisoners themselves, as Israel suspended the ability to receive money through the prison canteen systems in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault.
The salaries of the 1,612 prisoners were suspended after PA President Mahmoud Abbas announced in February that he was signing a decree ending the practice of paying the families of prisoners and slain terrorists.
The decree did not immediately take effect, and payments had continued as normal until now.
Going forward, prisoner salaries will be transferred by a non-governmental body. According to the Palestinian officials who commented on the matter, future payments will be based on the prisoners’ financial status, rather than the length of their sentences — meaning that the more severe the crime was, the better the pay — as has been the case until now.
It was not clear why these 1,612 prisoners are not eligible to receive money under the conditions of the new system.
In April, The Times of Israel reported that the PA is committed to reforming the prisoner salary payments by June 1.
- Most Israelis believe peace agreement with Palestinians would improve security and economy
Many respondents believed a political solution would enhance safety, strengthen the economy, and increase stability, despite doubts about its feasibility.
Most Israelis believe that a peace agreement with the Palestinians would improve national security and boost the economy, even though few expect such a deal to be reached in the coming decade, a new survey from Hebrew University’s Chord Center for Social Psychology for Social Change found.
The results contradict the widespread perception that peace lacks public support. Many respondents said they believed a political solution would enhance personal safety, strengthen the economy, and increase long-term stability, even as doubts persist over its feasibility.
The survey, conducted in April 2025 among 820 Israeli adults, will be presented this week at the People’s Peace Summit in Jerusalem. The summit, scheduled for May 8–9, is organized by It’s Time, a coalition of 60 Israeli civil society groups promoting peace, reconciliation, and a shared society.
Peace seen as path to greater security
According to the findings, 46% of respondents believe that a peace agreement would reduce rocket attacks against Israel, compared to 21% who believed it would increase them. When asked about terror attacks, 41% said such incidents would decrease, while 28% expected them to rise. On a personal level, 43% believed their own security would improve under an agreement, while 17% feared it would worsen.
The data also suggested optimism regarding IDF service. Nearly half (49%) said they believed reserve duty would be shortened as a result of peace, while 34% said mandatory service could also be reduced.
Peace deal seen as economic, democratic boost
A majority (60%) said a peace agreement would lead to increased tourism. About 50% expected such a deal to drive economic growth and promote regional technological partnerships. On a social level, 46% believed it would allow more investment in education, health, and welfare.
In addition, 45% said the government could focus more on domestic priorities. A further 39% saw peace as a way to strengthen Israeli democracy, though 31% said it could also deepen societal divisions.
Among opposition voters, 57% said a peace agreement that includes a Palestinian state would bolster democracy—highlighting a prevailing concern that the conflict undermines democratic governance.
International backing viewed as essential
Most respondents identified international involvement as key to achieving peace. Some 58% cited American engagement as important, while 57% supported official Israeli recognition of the Palestinian Authority. Another 54% highlighted the role of Arab states in securing a regional agreement.
Political affiliation was a significant factor in attitudes toward peace. Among opposition voters, 64% said that changing the current government would improve the chances for peace, compared to just 26% of coalition voters. Regarding national consensus, 65% of opposition voters said it was necessary to reach an agreement, while only 35% of coalition voters agreed.
Optimism mixed with deep skepticism
While 42% of respondents supported a regional peace deal that includes the establishment of a Palestinian state, only 15% said they believed such a deal could be achieved in the near future. Among coalition supporters, that figure dropped to just 5%, compared to 24% among opposition voters.
In a statement, the It’s Time coalition said: “The findings presented at the conference prove that Israelis want hope—and they see peace as the key. A political agreement with the Palestinians is rightly seen as the foundation for security, regional stability, and prosperity. This is a moment for serious, courageous and practical discourse. Especially in times of pain and distrust, it’s vital to present a vision for the future. Most Israelis believe peace would positively affect their lives. The People’s Peace Conference is about turning that belief into action. It’s a call not only to the government but to the public, to demand and build a different future together.”
Peace summit expected to be largest anti-war gathering since October 7
The People’s Peace Summit is expected to be the largest anti-war event since the Hamas-led massacre of October 7. The conference will feature cultural programming, educational forums, security and reconciliation discussions, and economic panels. Organizers say the goal is to channel public frustration and grief into actionable steps for peace and coexistence. link
- Excellent Op-ed by Gilad Sharon, Likud member and son of the late Ariel Sharon, titled “The Bibistan Party: Where Have the Senior Likud Members Gone?”, was published on Ynet, March 24, 2025.
Saudis will try to get Trump to back deal for Palestinian state, end to war, regional normalization
During US President Donald Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia later this week, Riyadh will try to get him onboard a regional package deal that includes forming a demilitarized Palestinian state, ending the war in Gaza while dismantling Hamas, and normalization of ties between Israel and Arab countries, according to the Kan public broadcaster.
The outlet cites an unnamed official in the Saudi royal family as saying there is much optimism in Riyadh that Trump will be persuaded to support such a deal.
The official is cited as saying some details can yet be changed, but a Palestinian state and stopping the war are non-negotiable components.
Israel mustn’t miss the opportunity, the Saudi official contends. link Although Trump is frustrated and angry with Netanyahu, this step is unlikely to happen. Trump wants to be on the good side of the Saudis but making an official declaration of support for a Palestinian State would fly in the eye of many/most American Jews and all of the Christian Fundamentalists. The recognition of a Palestinian State and working towards a 2 State Solution is the only way to bring us to an end of the Israel/Palestinian Conflict but I tend to doubt that Trump will make that declaration. He would definitely alienate his buddy, Netanyahu, even with his frustrations with him. Trump wants normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia but it is doubtful that he will go this far.
Coalition forced to ask ultra-Orthodox to back mass call-up in key Knesset meeting
Members of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee are reportedly unable to approve the government’s emergency call-up of tens of thousands of additional reservists ahead of its expected offensive in Gaza, after the coalition failed to muster enough support.
The lack of backing has forced the coalition to call for ultra-Orthodox members of the committee to enlist in the effort to approve the call-up, the Ynet news site reports.
A source with direct knowledge of the proceedings in the closed door meeting confirms the report to The Times of Israel.
Failure to approve the call-up in the committee could jeopardize the mass mobilization needed for further action in Gaza sought by the government, the source says.
Haredi parties have boycotted coalition legislation as they seek to pressure the government into approving military draft exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox community.
The Region and the WorldEgypt's relationship with Israel tumbles to new lows following extension of Gaza war
After the hostage deal between Israel and Hamas fell apart and Israel decided to extend the military campaign within the enclave, Egypt has significantly cooled relations with the Jewish state, avoiding sending a new ambassador and withholding approval on Israel's pick to head to Cairo
A senior official from Egypt’s Foreign Ministry informed Ynet Sunday that Cairo has decided not to appoint a new ambassador to Israel following Jerusalem’s declaration of its intent to intensify military operations against Hamas in Gaza. The official also stated that Egypt has chosen not to approve the credentials of Israel’s designated ambassador to Egypt, Uri Rothman, who was appointed by the Israeli government several months ago but has yet to leave for Cairo and is currently still in Israel.Egypt’s previous ambassador to Israel, Khaled Azmi, completed his term approximately a year ago, after it had been extended by an extra year. Since his departure back to Egypt, Egyptian diplomats have continued to operate the embassy on Basel Street in Tel Aviv without an ambassador.It was initially expected that Dr. Tarek Dahroug, a veteran diplomat who has held several senior roles in Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, would be appointed as the country’s next ambassador to Israel. Among his notable previous positions were his role as the head of the Libya department within the ministry and his tenure as Egypt’s ambassador to Pakistan. Dahroug, who is a graduate of the Sorbonne University in Paris, was ultimately assigned to a different prestigious position by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. This week, Dahroug was appointed as Egypt’s ambassador to France.Within Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, the position of ambassador to Israel is described as “extremely sensitive.” Similar to the appointments of Egyptian ambassadors to the United States and Saudi Arabia, candidates for this role must receive approval from both the Egyptian president and the country’s intelligence services.The worsening relationship between Cairo and Jerusalem is further reflected in Egypt’s refusal to approve the diplomatic credentials, or “agrément,” for Uri Rothman, who was appointed as Israel’s ambassador to Cairo over five months ago.The procedure for appointing an ambassador involves the sending country formally requesting approval from the host nation, a diplomatic process known as “agrément.” Host countries may choose to reject or delay the approval for an ambassadorial appointment for various reasons. Often, instead of issuing an outright rejection, the host country will simply withhold its response indefinitely while signaling its disapproval through diplomatic channels. This appears to be the case with Rothman, whose appointment has been delayed, preventing him from assuming his post in Cairo.A senior Egyptian diplomat, speaking anonymously, attributed the strained relations between the two countries to Israel’s recent announcement of an expanded ground offensive in Gaza. According to this official, the decision to withhold ambassadorial appointments is a direct response to the escalating conflict.Another factor contributing to the deterioration in relations is Egypt’s diminished role in mediating a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Following the exposure of the Qatar-Gate affair, Doha has emerged as the primary mediator, relegating Egypt to a secondary role. Since the scandal came to light, Cairo has maintained a low profile, with senior Egyptian officials refraining from commenting on the actions of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s advisors. However, the senior Egyptian diplomat noted, “All options remain on the table.” LinkSource in the Saudi royal house to N12: "There is no hope for progress in normalization with Netanyahu’s government"
The preparations in Riyadh for Trump’s visit: President of the United States will fly tomorrow to Saudi Arabia – where his Gulf tour will begin • A source in the Saudi royal family clarifies: "We will not normalize relations without a clear commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state" • Report: Abu Mazen, Syrian President al-Shara, and Lebanese President Aoun will participate in the summit in RiyadhPresident of the United States Donald Trump is expected to fly tomorrow (Monday) to Saudi Arabia and to open there his round of visits in the Gulf, but while preparations continue in the kingdom – a source in the Saudi royal house said this morning (Sunday) in a conversation with N12 that "there is no hope for progress in normalization under the Netanyahu government and even Trump himself has lost faith in this, maybe it will happen under a future government and there will be a chance for change."
The source in the Saudi royal house emphasized that "several important agreements are expected to be signed with Trump, relating to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, among them: a plan to establish a civilian nuclear project in Neom in cooperation with the United States."
Alongside this, in the kingdom they hope that "Trump will declare recognition of a Palestinian state within the borders of June 4, 1967." According to the source, "perhaps this is the surprise Trump hinted at recently. However, it is evident that there is tension between Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the right-wing government under his leadership."
The source in the Saudi royal family clarifies in a conversation he held with us: "We will not normalize relations with Israel without meeting the central condition and a clear commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state – return to the borders of June 4, 1967, in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative (2002) and the Dead Sea Summit Initiative (2017)." According to him, Trump recognizes this demand and intends to promote it: "Recognition of a Palestinian state alongside assurance of Israel’s security."
"If this step is realized," he added, "Saudi Arabia and other Arab and Islamic countries will promote normalization." According to him, "these things were agreed with Trump in the framework of behind-the-scenes talks, alongside the civilian nuclear project – and received cooperation from him."
Saudi expert Abdallah al-Qahtani referred to Trump’s visit to the Gulf in a conversation with N12:
"I do not expect something exceptional. On the civilian nuclear issue, an agreement has already been reached and only the details remain to be finalized, this is what I believe. Regarding normalization with Israel – there is no positive indication of that, unless Trump proposes something significant to the Palestinians. This requires a solution to the Palestinian issue that is not seen on the horizon."Report: The summit in Riyadh will include Abu Mazen
The Palestinian newspaper Al-Quds reported this morning that at the meeting to be held on Tuesday in Riyadh between Trump and bin Salman, Palestinian Authority Chairman Abu Mazen, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, and Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara are also expected to participate.It was stated that bin Salman passed on the proposal for the summit meeting and it received the approval of the Trump administration. It was noted that "bin Salman seeks to obtain Trump’s consent for the Saudi demand to establish a Palestinian state. Achieving this goal will be considered one of the greatest and most important achievements of Saudi diplomacy in recent times."
The visit of Abu Mazen’s deputy and the Iranian foreign minister in Riyadh
On Thursday, the deputy of the Chairman of the Palestinian Authority, Hussein al-Sheikh, visited Riyadh for the first time since he was appointed to his position. In his visit to Riyadh, the deputy of Abu Mazen, Hussein al-Sheikh, met with Saudi Crown Prince bin Salman.A Palestinian source said to Sky News in Arabic at the end of the week that Saudi Crown Prince bin Salman emphasized in his meeting with Hussein al-Sheikh that there will be no normalization with Israel before the end of the war in Gaza and the opening of a political path that will lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The visit of the Iranian foreign minister in Saudi Arabia
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited yesterday in Saudi Arabia before Trump’s visit and met with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan.The visit came at an important timing – just days before Trump’s visit to the kingdom and ahead of the renewal of the round of nuclear talks between the United States and Iran in Oman. link
Personal Stories
It ends with Netanyahu’s own words which seem to have been forgotten by his loyal base…
“A prime minister up to his neck in investigations has no moral or public mandate to make such fateful decisions for the State of Israel. Because there is a fear—I must say, a real and not unfounded fear—that he will make decisions based on his personal interest in political survival, and not on the national interest.”
Translation Linda Levine
“What will you say the day the madness ends?
You know—it will end one day. One day he’ll be gone, and it will all be over.
So what will you say then, senior members of the Bibistan Party (formerly the Likud)?
Will you say that the draft-dodging law—when thousands of soldiers are missing and reservists are collapsing under the burden—is the Likud’s way?
That abandoning the hostages so Netanyahu can cling to power is Likud?
That fleeing responsibility and opposing a state commission of inquiry (even Solberg’s compromise) is Likud?
That normalizing and reinstating the same wretch as Minister of Police for the second time—despite his utter failure—is Likud?
What will you say about the stench of the Qatari affair?
You know full well the uproar you’d have made if such a stench hovered over a political rival from outside our camp.
Is that stench—Likud?
What will you say when this is all over?
Where will you put your shame?
“That wasn’t us. We couldn’t do anything. It was him.”
Nonsense.
None of this could have happened if you weren’t such pathetic cowards, clinging to your current job and drooling over the next.
You’re so attached to the teats of power that nothing—not a single thing—will ever make you grow a backbone.
There’s no disgrace you won’t whitewash. You’ll keep nodding along to every whim and every madness.
Israel Katz, is your dream of becoming prime minister worth selling out the soldiers?
Yoav Kisch, descendant of brave officers—your grandfather, Brigadier Kisch, fought with Montgomery in the Western Desert, your father was a division engineer under Sharon in Sinai. You entered politics to promote equality in bearing the burden. And now? You’re ready to vote for the draft-dodging law without blinking.
How could you sell your soul?
Nir Barkat, the greater the ambition, the deeper the fall.
This is how you hope to lead anything?
Maybe start with a transplant—if not of character, then something else to give you an ounce of courage?
Amir Ohana, you’re third in the national line of succession. How “statesmanlike” is it to incite ushers on the families of the hostages?
Avi Dichter, you were once a brave fighter. What have you become?
You’re in your 70s now—is this how you want to be remembered?
There are more—many more—some worse, some silent and perhaps righteous, but the space here runs out.
Do you not see what your weakness and spinelessness have enabled?
What this regime is doing to the country is reminiscent of what Caligula and Nero did to Rome.
Netanyahu, you talk about the deep state?
If, after so many years in power, this is the state of affairs—who’s responsible for it?
A prime minister stands and attacks, in Hebrew and English, the very institutions he himself leads. It’s complete madness.
Sure, maybe there are many officials who should be fired—but not you.
Because you’re compromised. You’re in a conflict of interest.
If not for the family’s insatiable greed, maybe you’d have been able to fire the Attorney General.
But right now, she’s the prosecutor in your trial—one meant to determine whether that greed is criminal or just reeks.
Speaking of reeking, the Shin Bet is currently investigating that Qatari stench surrounding you.
I’ll end with Netanyahu’s own words:
“A prime minister up to his neck in investigations has no moral or public mandate to make such fateful decisions for the State of Israel. Because there is a fear—I must say, a real and not unfounded fear—that he will make decisions based on his personal interest in political survival, and not on the national interest.”
Seems like it couldn’t have been said any better.”
Acronyms and Glossary
ICC - International Criminal Court in the Hague
IJC - International Court of Justice in the Hague
MDA - Magen David Adom - Israel Ambulance Corp
PA - Palestinian Authority - President Mahmud Abbas, aka Abu Mazen
PMO- Prime Minister's Office
UAV - Unmanned Aerial vehicle, Drone. Could be used for surveillance and reconnaissance, or be weaponized with missiles or contain explosives for 'suicide' explosion mission
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